Ww Risotto With Scallops and Asparagus (Microwave): A Weeknight Revelation

There’s a certain magic that unfolds when a dish, often perceived as requiring hours of meticulous attention, can be conjured up with surprising speed and ease. This risotto, born from the ingenious philosophy of Weight Watchers, holds a special place in my heart for just that reason. I remember the first time I encountered its promise – a weeknight, a hankering for something elegant yet comforting, and the sheer disbelief that creamy, luscious risotto could be achieved in a microwave. It felt like discovering a culinary secret, a shortcut to gourmet dining without sacrificing flavor or texture. This recipe is a testament to that revelation, proving that even the most beloved dishes can be adapted for our busy lives.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 21 minutes
• Total Time: 36 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Yield: 4 servings
• Dietary Type: Pescatarian

Ingredients

• 2 teaspoons olive oil
• 1/2 cup red onion, finely diced
• 8 ounces arborio rice (or other short-grain rice)
• 1 1/4 cups low sodium chicken broth
• 12 thin asparagus spears, cut diagonally into 1-inch pieces
• 10 ounces bay scallops
• 1 1/2 ounces asiago cheese, finely grated
• 1/2 teaspoon lemon zest, grated
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• Black pepper, freshly ground to taste

Equipment Needed

• 2-quart microwavable casserole dish

Instructions

Embarking on the creation of this remarkably swift risotto is a journey of flavor, surprisingly accessible thanks to the convenience of the microwave. It’s a dish that challenges preconceived notions about risotto, proving that rich, satisfying meals can be a reality even on the busiest of evenings.

1. Begin by preparing your flavor base. In a 2-quart microwavable casserole dish, add the olive oil. Microwave this on High (100% power) for 30 seconds, allowing the oil to become nicely hot.
2. Next, introduce the finely diced red onion to the hot oil. Stir to combine, then microwave on High for 2 minutes. This brief cooking period will soften the onions and begin to release their sweet aroma.
3. Now, it’s time for the star of the risotto: the rice. Add the arborio rice to the casserole dish with the onions. Stir thoroughly to coat the grains with the residual oil and onion essence. Microwave this mixture on High for another 2 minutes. This step helps to toast the rice slightly, adding another layer of flavor.
4. Pour in the low sodium chicken broth and 2 cups of water to the rice mixture. Stir everything together to ensure the rice is well-submerged and to combine all the ingredients.
5. Cover the casserole dish and microwave on High for 14 minutes. Crucially, remember to stir the risotto after the first 7 minutes of this cooking period. This stirring is essential for achieving that characteristic creamy texture, preventing the rice from sticking and ensuring even cooking as most of the liquid is absorbed.
6. Once the initial cooking of the rice is complete, it’s time to add the vibrant asparagus. Stir the asparagus spears into the rice mixture. Return the uncovered dish to the microwave and microwave on High for 5 minutes. The asparagus will cook and become tender-crisp during this stage.
7. The final protein addition is the delicate bay scallops. Gently stir them into the hot rice and asparagus mixture. Microwave on High for another 2 minutes, or until the scallops are opaque in the center and cooked through. At this point, the rice should be tender, and all of the liquid should be thoroughly absorbed, creating a beautifully creamy consistency.
8. To finish, remove the casserole dish from the microwave. Stir in the finely grated asiago cheese, lemon zest, fresh lemon juice, salt, and black pepper. Continue to stir until the cheese is completely melted and has beautifully incorporated into the risotto, lending its nutty, savory notes and a lovely creamy finish.

Expert Tips & Tricks

While this recipe is remarkably straightforward, a few chef-level touches can elevate your microwave risotto to true restaurant quality. When selecting your arborio rice, ensure it’s fresh. Older rice can sometimes take longer to cook or may not absorb liquid as effectively. If you find your risotto is a little too thick after the final cheese addition, a tablespoon or two of hot water can be stirred in to achieve your desired consistency. For an extra pop of freshness, a small handful of fresh parsley or chives, finely chopped, can be stirred in along with the cheese for a brighter, more herbaceous finish. And always remember, microwaves can vary in power, so keep an eye on your risotto during the cooking times, especially towards the end, to avoid overcooking the delicate scallops.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

This Ww Risotto With Scallops and Asparagus is best served immediately, allowing you to fully appreciate the creamy texture and the freshness of the ingredients. Plate generous portions in warm shallow bowls. A final drizzle of good quality olive oil and a grind of fresh black pepper can add a touch of elegance. If you happen to have leftovers, which is unlikely given how delightful it is, allow the risotto to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheating is best done gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring in a splash of water or broth to restore its creamy consistency. Microwaving leftovers can sometimes lead to a slightly less desirable texture, but it is a viable option for a quick reheat.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	358 kcal	18%
Total Fat	7 g	9%
Saturated Fat	3 g	15%
Cholesterol	31 mg	10%
Sodium	411 mg	18%
Total Carbohydrate	51 g	18%
Dietary Fiber	2 g	7%
Total Sugars	2 g	4%
Protein	21 g	42%
Calcium	132 mg	10%

Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

Variations & Substitutions

While this recipe is perfectly balanced, the beauty of cooking lies in its adaptability. For a dairy-free version, you could explore using a nutritional yeast-based “parmesan” substitute and ensure your chicken broth is vegetable-based. If bay scallops are unavailable, regular sea scallops, quartered, can be used, though their cooking time might vary slightly. For a vegetarian option, omit the scallops and consider adding extra asparagus or incorporating other quick-cooking vegetables like peas or finely chopped zucchini. A squeeze of lime juice instead of lemon can offer a different citrusy brightness.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I use brown rice or basmati rice instead of arborio rice?
A: While arborio rice is ideal for its starch content that creates creaminess, other short-grain rice varieties will work. Brown rice and basmati rice have different starch properties and cooking times, so they may not yield the same classic risotto texture in the microwave.

Q: My risotto seems a bit dry after cooking. What can I do?
A: If your risotto is drier than you prefer, stir in a tablespoon or two of hot water or additional broth at the end until you reach your desired creamy consistency.

Q: Can I make this risotto ahead of time?
A: Risotto is best enjoyed fresh. However, if you must make it ahead, refrigerate it and reheat gently on the stovetop with a little extra liquid to restore its creamy texture.

Q: Is it possible to use different types of seafood?
A: Yes, you can experiment with other quick-cooking seafood like small shrimp or mussels, adjusting the cooking time as needed to ensure they are cooked through and not overcooked.

Q: What makes this recipe a “WW” recipe?
A: “WW” recipes, often referred to as Weight Watchers recipes, are typically designed to be mindful of calorie and nutrient density, often utilizing lean proteins, plenty of vegetables, and controlled amounts of fats and grains. This recipe’s emphasis on lean protein, vegetables, and controlled fat makes it fit within a mindful eating framework.

Final Thoughts

This Ww Risotto With Scallops and Asparagus is more than just a recipe; it’s a testament to smart, modern cooking. It proves that you don’t need hours over a hot stove to achieve a dish that’s both elegant and deeply satisfying. I encourage you to give this microwave marvel a try. It’s a delightful dish to share with loved ones or to savor as a personal treat. Pair it with a crisp green salad and a glass of chilled white wine for a complete and effortless meal. I’d love to hear about your experience and any creative twists you might bring to this wonderfully convenient classic.